The moment you sink your teeth into a batch of crispy smashed potatoes, you’ll understand why they’re the unsung hero of dinner tables everywhere. Imagine golden-crusted spuds with a fluffy interior that practically begs for a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh herbs. It’s like a cozy hug from your favorite dish.
Jump to:
- <strong>Essential Ingredients</strong>
- <strong>Let’s Make it Together</strong>
- <strong>Perfecting the Cooking Process</strong>
- <strong>Add Your Touch</strong>
- <strong>Storing & Reheating</strong>
- <strong>FAQ</strong>
- How do I ensure my potatoes stay crispy?
- Can I prepare these potatoes ahead of time?
- What type of potato is best for crispy smashed potatoes?
- 📖 Recipe Card
I still remember the first time I made these little wonders. My friends were visiting for game night, and I thought I’d impress them with something fancy. Spoiler alert: they definitely weren’t prepared for my “potato magic.” The laughter that followed was almost as delightful as the flavors bursting in our mouths. Trust me; these crispy smashed potatoes are perfect for any occasion.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These crispy smashed potatoes are incredibly easy to prepare and require minimal effort
- Their delightful crunch makes them an irresistible side dish that pairs well with any meal
- Visually appealing with their golden crusts and fluffy centers, they will steal the show at your dinner table
- Versatile enough to experiment with different toppings or seasonings based on personal preference!
I served these crispy smashed potatoes at my family barbecue last summer, and everyone went back for seconds!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Potatoes: About 2 pounds; Yukon Gold or red potatoes work best for their creamy texture.
- Olive Oil: Use good quality extra virgin olive oil for enhanced flavor.
- Salt and Pepper: Season generously; it brings out the natural goodness of the potatoes.
- Fresh Herbs: Chopped rosemary or thyme adds a fragrant touch; feel free to get creative!
- Garlic Powder: A must-have for that extra punch; it elevates the flavor profile!
- Parmesan cheese (optional): For those who want an indulgent twist, sprinkle some on top before baking.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Boil the Potatoes: Start by placing your whole potatoes in a large pot filled with salted water. Bring it to a boil over medium heat until fork-tender—about 15-20 minutes should do the trick.
Drain and Cool: Once boiled, drain the potatoes using a colander and let them cool slightly. You want them warm enough to handle but not scalding hot—trust me on this!
Smashed & Spiced Up!: Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C). On a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, arrange your cooled spuds with some space between each one. Using the bottom of a glass or potato masher, gently smash each potato until flattened but not completely obliterated!
Season Generously!: Drizzle olive oil over each smashed potato—don’t be shy! Then sprinkle salt, pepper, garlic powder, and fresh herbs generously over them for maximum flavor impact.
Bake to Perfection!: Pop those beauties into your preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes or until they’re golden brown and crisping up nicely around the edges.
Serve & Enjoy!: Remove from oven and let them cool slightly before garnishing with more herbs or Parmesan if desired. Serve them hot as an irresistible side dish!
Crispy smashed potatoes are simple yet unbelievably satisfying. They’ll quickly become your go-to recipe when you want something special without too much fuss!
You Must Know
- Crispy smashed potatoes are the ultimate crowd-pleaser, combining fluffy interiors with irresistibly crunchy exteriors
- They’re perfect for any occasion and can be customized based on your favorite flavors
- The aroma that fills your kitchen will have everyone asking for seconds!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by boiling the potatoes until tender, then smash them before roasting for maximum crispiness. This sequence ensures you achieve that delightful crunch while keeping the insides perfectly soft.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to experiment with seasonings! Add garlic powder, paprika, or fresh herbs like rosemary to elevate your crispy smashed potatoes to gourmet status.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover crispy smashed potatoes in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat in the oven at 375°F (190°C) to restore their delightful crunch.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To achieve perfect crispy smashed potatoes, use waxy potatoes like Yukon Golds for better texture
- Don’t rush the boiling; you want them soft but not falling apart
- And remember, hot oil makes a world of difference for that golden crust!
The first time I made crispy smashed potatoes, my friends devoured them in minutes and claimed they were better than fries. Their enthusiastic reactions made me realize I’d struck gold in potato cooking!
FAQ
How do I ensure my potatoes stay crispy?
Make sure to dry the potatoes thoroughly after boiling before smashing and roasting.
Can I prepare these potatoes ahead of time?
Yes, you can boil and smash them ahead; just roast right before serving.
What type of potato is best for crispy smashed potatoes?
Waxy potatoes like Yukon Gold or red potatoes work best for achieving desired texture.
Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.
📖 Recipe Card
Print
Crispy Smashed Potatoes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Crispy smashed potatoes are a game-changing side dish, featuring a fluffy interior and a golden, crunchy exterior that’s simply irresistible. Perfectly seasoned, they’re ideal for any meal or gathering.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds Yukon Gold or red potatoes
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 tablespoons fresh herbs (rosemary or thyme), chopped
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Boil the potatoes in salted water until fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain and let cool slightly.
- Preheat the oven to 450°F (232°C). On a lined baking sheet, gently smash each potato with the bottom of a glass.
- Drizzle olive oil over the smashed potatoes and season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and fresh herbs.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
- Garnish with more herbs or Parmesan if desired and serve hot.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (150g)
- Calories: 265
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 27g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 6mg
